Best Campgrounds near Forest Hill, MD

Campgrounds near Forest Hill, Maryland offer a mix of established facilities in state parks and private recreational areas. Several locations like Elk Neck State Park and Susquehanna State Park provide tent and RV sites, while others such as Merry Meadows Recreation Farm and Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina include cabin camping options. Most campgrounds in the area are situated within a 30-mile radius of Forest Hill, creating a network of mixed-use facilities that serve both overnight campers and extended-stay visitors. The surrounding counties feature waterfront locations along rivers and creeks, as well as more wooded interior sites.

Reservations are strongly recommended at most campgrounds in the region, particularly for weekend stays during the prime season from April through October. Many of the state parks like Codorus and Susquehanna operate on seasonal schedules, typically closing their camping facilities from November through March. Access to most campgrounds requires driving through residential areas or narrow country roads, which can present challenges for large RVs or trailers. The climate typically allows for comfortable camping from spring through fall, with summer highs in the 80s and occasional thunderstorms. According to one visitor at Susquehanna State Park, "There are lots of long scenic hiking trails down to Deer creek and to the Susquehanna River. There's a great bike trail to the Conowingo dam which is a nice place to visit, and a great place to see lots of eagles."

Waterfront sites consistently rank among the most popular camping locations in the region. Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina features premium waterfront spots where, as a camper noted, "sites are literally 10 ft. from the water" with full hookups. Several visitors mentioned the opportunity to fish directly from campsites as a significant draw. Facilities at most campgrounds include modern bathhouses, electric hookups, and dumping stations, though amenities vary by location. Family-oriented recreation areas like Merry Meadows Recreation Farm provide additional activities such as mini-golf and playgrounds. Noise levels remain relatively low at most locations, with the exception of holiday weekends when campgrounds typically reach capacity. Many campgrounds in Pennsylvania's portion of the region allow alcohol, while Maryland state parks generally prohibit it.

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Best Camping Sites Near Forest Hill, Maryland (115)

    1. Elk Neck State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Perryville, MD
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 287-5333

    $21 - $55 / night

    "I didn't notice it when I was in my tent, but I did as I was walking around.

    The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. "

    "Surrounding area

    There are lots of tails for hiking in walking distance and also a playground for kids."

    2. Susquehanna State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Edgewood, MD
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 557-7994

    $21 - $50 / night

    "The campsites are separated more widely than many other parks in Maryland (Cunningham Falls, Ft. Frederick, Pt. Lookout), and are quite secluded in comparison."

    "I was a walk-up with no reservation and since it was a weekday the ranger gave me a great rundown of the best spots in the camp and let me drive through to check them out before going back with my decision"

    3. Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina

    8 Reviews
    Abingdon, MD
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 679-0880

    $70 - $90 / night

    "Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn’t but a few steps away. Some sites you are right on the waters edge."

    "This is close to us so it was an easy trip. Full hookup but we’re told to turn off and unhook water the night it dropped below freezing."

    4. Merry Meadows Recreation Farm

    19 Reviews
    Freeland, MD
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 329-6636

    "It was a VERY dark walk to get to the bathhouse for showers. And the fire pit had no grill, so we ended up having to use the stoves of some RV camping friends for meals."

    "Large campground with some good trails

    Will definitely return!"

    5. Tucquan Park Family Campground

    12 Reviews
    Holtwood, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 284-2156

    "Highly recommend staying here with lots of close hiking trails within driving distance."

    "There was a lot of space so walking our dogs was great. The smaller bathroom stalls are pretty small but got the job done. Playground and pool were both nice and clean. Wonderful place for a family."

    6. Muddy Run Rec Park - PPL

    11 Reviews
    Holtwood, PA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 284-4325

    "The large lake is great for a day of kayaking and fishing with supplies readily available for rent at the boat dock store."

    "The observatory is open to public once a month, we recommend you plan your trip around this."

    7. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville

    19 Reviews
    Quarryville, PA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 610-4505

    "We stayed here in November with beautiful weather which meant the large farm behind the campground was spraying manure over their fields. We could smell it."

    "The site was covered and it was cool around 4:30pm when the sun went behind the trees. It didn’t look like all sites had that much cover so be careful."

    8. Pequea Creek Campground

    14 Reviews
    Pequea, PA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 284-4587

    "Covered bridges and road side shopping are close by. Enjoyed river tubing which is close by to this campground. Music bingo on Saturday night was so much fun. Owners are very nice and helpful."

    "The wife & I stayed in site 22 for three nights and bicycled 14 miles, some along the Susquehanna, on nearby Enola Low Grade Trail . "

    9. Otter Creek Campground

    10 Reviews
    Pequea, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 862-3628

    "Just down the road about a mile or so was the Indian Steps Museum which is owned by York Conservation Society."

    "Its close proximity to the Susquehanna River, Otter Creek, and the Mason Dixon Trail is absolutely ideal! Sites are spacious and nice! Restrooms clean!"

    10. Codorus State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    Porters Sideling, PA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 637-2816

    $20 - $195 / night

    "This campground isn't too far from our home in Maryland, so if they have room and we want to go spur of the moment, this one is a good choice.  "

    "The trails from

    Campground are ok for a short walk, not much of a lake view but mostly shaded trail.  The pool is conveniently located maybe even walking distance for some.  "

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Recent Reviews near Forest Hill, MD

915 Reviews of 115 Forest Hill Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Round Top Campground

    Better than OK

    Stayed for 2 days while passing through from FL to NH. Off-season so not crowded. Pool was clean and quite good sized, had it to ourselves due to season. Did laundry while here, ample laundry room. On-site extras include food-truck restaurant and small country goods vendor during our stay. Office staff did ok. Sites have reasonable spacing with gravel pads, mostly level. Trees between sites with sloping hills , not just a big open field. It’s a corporate site so automated web-based reservation system was finicky so we had to verify reservation went through. Tried to book 2 nights but system only set us up for 1. Phone call to help line easily resolved the issue. Quiet and no spotlights on all night.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    Peace and quiet !

    Great spot! We had site 114 . It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape. Sites were of ample size and well spaced.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Elk Neck State Park Campground

    More than correct stay for a pass through or short period

    Check in at the store (without reservation), went very smooth. Only the north east loop was open because it was calm. All spots are full hook up, all fine. There was a small play area for the kids and the restrooms/ shower where clean. No complaints.

  • Scott J.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sun Valley Campground

    My Happy Place

    My wife and I have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations. The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you ". That alone told us these folks are here to make your stay enjoyable. They go above and beyond any campground we have ever been to. The activities go above and beyond. The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined. For the past 4 years it has been our "Happy Place"

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Round Top Campground

    I camped and worked here.

    I’m a shamanic energy healer and health enthusiast exploring a new life and hunting for healthy. While this campground has some nice features. This certainly is not a health conscious facility. Lots of smoking, drinking and unhealthy food. There was also evidence of mice in the main store and definitely issues with the water.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Good stay

    The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp.

  • Barbara P.
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    BED BUGS in Cabin

    I believe Cabin 1409 is infested with BED BUGS! After a short stay in this cabin(7/28-7/30) I came home with 80+ bug bites that I'm certain were from BED BUGS. A dozen of them were on my eyelid! My dermatologist gave me a high strength dosage of prednisone to combat the swelling and itching. We promptly advised the property manager, who was sympathetic, but once our claim for damages(mostly items we had to throw out due to contamination) reached the insurance company, the process stalled. It's been 19 days and now the insurance adjuster is out of the office for another week- having provided no updates or feedback on our claim. I wish I had posted this earlier, as I wonder if the cabin that Michael M complained about in his Aug. 4 YELP review was the very same cabin. I had hoped our conversations with the property manager would have prevented additional folks from the same fate. I also wish I had read a few earlier reviews that warned of BED BUGS. I continue to fear an infestation in my home, in the event we brought home nymphs or eggs or the bugs themselves. I'm constantly vacuuming and looking under seat cushions and my mattress. I now dry all my laundry on high for 60 minutes, knowing it's damaging my clothes, but also knowing it's the best way to kill the bugs and their eggs- which can go dormant and survive for a year without biting again. Zero stars. Choose to stay elsewhere!

  • Edison L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Country Acres Campground

    So Nice It’s Almost Not Camping

    We stayed at one of the primitive tent sites with no hookups adjacent to the farm field. Watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy. Amenities are super clean and modern. Clean bathroom, laundry room, pool area for the kids, and a well stocked store. The only critique I have is that you can hear the distant sound of cars on the road. But this is by no means a nuisance. Just helping you make an informed decision. I would definitely go back.


Guide to Forest Hill

Camping near Forest Hill, Maryland, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic parks to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What to do

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the beautiful trails at Elk Neck State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, “Great trails and great staff,” highlighting the park's accessibility and friendly atmosphere.
  • Fishing and Water Activities: The Susquehanna State Park Campground is perfect for fishing and tubing. A reviewer noted, “Has access to Susquehanna River, nice hiking trails,” making it a great spot for water lovers.
  • Family Fun: Check out Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville. One camper shared, “Kids enjoy the water park and nighttime laser tag parties,” which makes it a hit for families.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Lums Pond State Park Campground. A visitor said, “Great bath houses, always super clean,” which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Codorus State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, “The trailer sites in loop C are spacious enough with plenty of shade and trees.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers often seek peace and quiet, and Merry Meadows Recreation Farm delivers. A guest noted, “This was the quietest campground we have ever stayed at,” making it ideal for relaxation.

What you should know

  • Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds, like Codorus State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A camper pointed out, “NO alcohol allowed,” so be sure to check the rules before you go.
  • Crowded Weekends: Expect busier crowds on weekends at places like Susquehanna State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, “Very busy on the weekends,” which can affect your camping experience.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may have fewer amenities. A reviewer at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area noted, “The campground is small but has good amenities,” so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville, where activities for kids are plentiful. A parent shared, “Plenty to do every day and night,” making it a great choice for families.
  • Check Playground Availability: Many campgrounds, such as Merry Meadows Recreation Farm, have playgrounds. One camper mentioned, “It was great so our daughter could go when she wanted,” which is perfect for keeping kids entertained.
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Be mindful of quiet hours, especially at campgrounds like Codorus State Park Campground. A visitor noted, “People don’t understand quiet after 10 PM,” so remind your group to keep the noise down.

Tips from RVers

  • Leveling Blocks Are Essential: Many RVers recommend bringing leveling blocks. A camper at Circle M RV and Camping Resort said, “Must have leveling blocks,” to ensure a comfortable stay.
  • Check Site Sizes: Before booking, check the size of the sites. One reviewer at Thousand Trails Circle M mentioned, “The sites are uneven,” which can be tricky for larger rigs.
  • Be Prepared for Limited Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi can be spotty at some campgrounds. A visitor at Old Mill Stream Campground warned, “Wifi is a big pain,” so plan to disconnect while you’re there.

Camping near Forest Hill, Maryland, offers a mix of fun, relaxation, and adventure. Whether you’re with family or friends, there’s a campground that fits your needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Forest Hill, MD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Forest Hill, MD is Elk Neck State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 60 reviews.